This course is a general introduction to the scientific study of language,
particularly its theoretical debates, methodology, and relationship to other
disciplines. With this aim in mind, we will examine the analytic methods and
major findings of various subfields of linguistics, including phonetics,
phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and language change. Additional topics
may include dialects, American Sign Language, the acquisition of language, and
the official English language movement. By the end of the course, you should be
acquainted with systematic methods of studying language, be aware of the
fundamental similarities and startling diversity of human languages, and have an
informed perspective on how issues of language have an impact on our society.
Format: lecture/discussion. Requirements: participation in discussions, weekly
homework, a midterm exam, and a final exam.
No prerequisites. Enrollment limit: 40 (expected: 40).